Method and devices for detecting viruses and bacterial pathogens

ABSTRACT

The embodiments disclose a method including using a monitor system for monitoring and detecting chemical compositions and biological pathogens, providing the monitor system configured to communicate with a cell phone, using at least one monitor/detector component, providing a plurality of biological sensors for detecting certain biological pathogens, and providing a plurality of chemical sensors for detecting certain chemical compositions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Patent Application is a Continuation-in part and claims priority toUnited States Patent Application entitled: “MONITORING SYSTEM FOR USEWITH MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE”, U.S. Ser. No. 16/513,753 filed onJul. 17, 2019, the U.S. Patent Application being incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

The present exemplary embodiment relates to systems and methods fordetecting chemicals. It finds particular application in conjunction withpersonal communication devices and/or other handheld or portableelectronic devices and will be described with particular referencethereto. However, it is to be appreciated that the present exemplaryembodiment is also amenable to other like applications.

Cargo containers are widely used for shipping materials by land or bywater from one country to another. Knowing the contents of suchcontainers has become of increasing importance in detecting potentialthreats. It has thus become extremely important to monitor the contentsof such containers for harmful materials, such as explosives, harmfulbiological and chemical materials, and radiation materials.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary communicationdevice and removable component in accordance with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary system in accordancewith the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates another exemplary removable component in accordancewith the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary container including a monitoring systemin accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary public space in which the monitoringsystem in accordance with the present disclosure is configured tomonitor;

FIG. 6. illustrates an exemplary monitoring system in accordance withthe present disclosure integrated into a collar of a law enforcementcanine;

FIG. 7 illustrates another exemplary public space in which themonitoring system in accordance with the present disclosure isconfigured to monitor;

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary monitoring system in accordance with thepresent disclosure integrated into a cargo hold of an aircraft; and

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary monitoring system in accordance with thepresent disclosure integrated into a handheld wand for scanningpassengers and/or luggage.

FIG. 10 shows a block diagram of an overview of a monitoring systemdevices and processes of one embodiment.

FIG. 11 shows a block diagram of an overview of a monitor/detectorcomponent of one embodiment.

FIG. 12 shows a block diagram of an overview of a liquid samplemonitor/detector component of one embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of an overview of recording the individualpatient's detection analysis data information in the patient's HIPAA EHRof one embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of an overview of a monitor system formonitoring and detecting chemical compositions and biological pathogensof one embodiment.

FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of an overview of a power source of oneembodiment.

FIG. 16 shows a block diagram of an overview of an air flow inductiondevice of one embodiment.

FIG. 17 shows a block diagram of an overview of a cell phone forprocessing of one embodiment.

FIG. 18 shows a block diagram of an overview of sensors may detectharmful materials of one embodiment.

FIG. 19 shows a block diagram of an overview of a chemical signature appof one embodiment.

FIG. 20 shows a block diagram of an overview of a biological pathogenapp of one embodiment.

FIG. 21 shows a block diagram of an overview of communication circuitryto broadcast an alert of one embodiment.

FIG. 22 shows a block diagram of an overview of a network of deviceshaving a plurality of monitoring systems of one embodiment.

FIG. 23 shows a block diagram of an overview of the monitoring systemconfigured in a separate component of one embodiment.

FIG. 24 shows a block diagram of an overview of a scanning device of oneembodiment.

FIG. 25 shows a block diagram of an overview of RC ground vehicles andair craft of one embodiment.

FIG. 26 shows a block diagram of an overview of directional guidance tothe steering devices of one embodiment.

FIG. 27 shows a block diagram of an overview of location of medicalwaste disposal of one embodiment.

FIG. 28 shows a block diagram of an overview of monitor systems areplaced in air handlers of one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a following description, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way ofillustration a specific example in which the invention may be practiced.It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized andstructural changes may be made without departing from the scope of thepresent invention.

General Overview:

It should be noted that the descriptions that follow, for example, interms of a method and devices for detecting viruses and bacterialpathogens is described for illustrative purposes and the underlyingsystem can apply to any number and multiple types of viruses andbacterial pathogens. In one embodiment of the present invention, themethod and devices for detecting viruses and bacterial pathogens can beconfigured using one or both internal and external power source. Themethod and devices for detecting viruses and bacterial pathogens can beconfigured to include a single electrochemical sensing platform deviceand can be configured to include multiple electrochemical sensingplatform devices using the present invention.

With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary monitor for monitoring anddetecting chemical compositions is illustrated and identified generallyby reference numeral 10. In this embodiment, the monitor 10 is in theform of a protective case for a cell phone 12 or other personalcommunications device (e.g., tablets, laptops, etc.). It will beappreciated that the present disclosure is not limited to any particularcase design or configuration, and that aspects of the disclosure can beembodied in a wide variety of both protective cases as well asornamental cases and/or other devices attachable to either such cases ordirectly to a personal communication device. In other embodiments,aspects of the disclosure can be embodied in other types of accessoriesthat may commonly be used with a cell phone or person communicationsdevice. For example wearable devices such as smart watches, peripheraldevices such as Bluetooth speakers, etc.

Returning to FIG. 1, the cell phone 12 is configured to be received inand/or at least partially surrounded by the case 10 in any suitablefashion. In some arrangements, the case may be made of a resilientmaterial that can be deformed to allow the cell phone 12 to be securelyinserted and retained within the case. In other arrangements, the casecan include a hard plastic two-piece frame between which the cell phone12 is sandwiched. Again, a wide variety of case designs and types areenvisioned. The case 10 further includes a monitor system, which in FIG.1 is identified by reference numeral 16.

With reference to FIG. 2, the monitor system 16 generally includes amonitor/detector component 20. One monitor/detector component that isparticularly well-suited for purposes of the present disclosure is setforth in U.S. Pat. No. 8,629,770 to Hummer et al. and U.S. Pat. No.7,176,793 to Hummer, both of which are incorporated herein by referencein their entireties. Other types of monitor/detector components can alsobe used in accordance with the present disclosure.

The monitor system further includes communication circuitry 22 and apower source 24. The communication circuitry 22, in one embodiment,includes at least one of a near field communication device, Bluetoothcommunication device, WIFI communication device, or any other suitablecommunication circuity for establishing communications with the cellphone 12. The power source 24 can be a power supply such as a battery(lithium or other) mounted or otherwise contained within case 10. Inother embodiments, the power source 24 can be an antenna configured toreceive energy wirelessly and supply the received energy to one or bothof the monitor/detector component 20 and/or communication circuitry 22such that no onboard battery is required for operation of the monitorsystem 16. In still other arrangements, the power source 24 can be aconnector configured to couple with a port of the cell phone 12 toreceive power from a power source of the cell phone 12.

An active or passive air flow induction device 26 can be provided forensuring adequate and or continuous flow of air to the monitor 20. Suchdevices can include fans, micropumps, louvers, vents etc. An activeinduction device can be separately replaceable within the system and caninclude its own power supply. Alternatively, an active induction devicecan be configured to receive power from power supply 24.

It should be appreciated that the monitor/detector component 20 cancomprise a plurality of sensors 28. The sensors 28 can be individuallyreplaceable or can be replaced as a unit. Replacement of the sensors maybe necessary due to sensor degradation. In other situations, a user maywish to detect certain chemicals and will choose which sensors toinstall in the system. In one embodiment, the entire monitor system 16is replaceable as a unit.

The sensors 28 may detect harmful materials, such as explosives,radioactive materials, harmful chemicals, such as chemical warfareagents, nerve gases, biological materials, such as gases, anthrax andother germ warfare agents, narcotics and other illegal drugs, orcombinations thereof. At least one of the sensors 28 can be configuredfor generating a signal which is indicative of the presence of anitrogen-based explosive, such as trinitrotoluene (TNT) and/or aperoxide based explosive, such as triacetone triperoxide (TATP) orhexamethylenetriperoxidediamine (HMTD), or a combination thereof, forexample.

It will be appreciated that the monitor system 16 is configured tocommunicate with the cell phone 12. That is, the monitor system 16collects data and transmits or otherwise shares the collected data withthe cell phone 12 for processing. The cell phone 12 of the illustratedembodiment includes a processor 30, a memory 32, a communicationcircuitry 34, and a power source 36. It will be appreciated that thecell phone 12 can include a wide variety of additional components as isconventional. Such additional components can include a display device,input device, various sensors, various antennas, etc.

Data collected by the monitor/detector 20 is transmitted viacommunication circuitry 22 to communication circuitry 34 of the cellphone 12. Other data, such as sensor state, status, performance data,and the like can also be transmitted to the cell phone 12. Any suitablemanner of transmitting the data from the monitor system 16 to the cellphone 12 can be employed.

The data collected and transmitted by the monitoring system 16 is thenprocessed by the phone to detect one or more chemicals in accordancewith one or more methods set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 8,629,770 to Hummeret al. and U.S. Pat. No. 7,176,793 to Hummer. To this end, suitablesoftware for analyzing the data is stored in memory 32 of the cell phone12. Other detection and/or analyzing methods and techniques may also beused in conjunction with aspects of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the software stored in memory 12 can be in the formof an application, or “app”, that is downloaded from an app store or thelike. The app can be provided with various “signatures” of chemicals.The signatures can be compared to the data to determine whether thechemical signature was detected by the monitoring system 16. The app canbe configured to be automatically updated with new signatures as theneed to detect particular chemicals arise. That is, it is possible toprovide new and/or additional chemical signatures for the app to checkagainst the data to detect specific chemicals.

The app can further include features such as adjustable thresholds. Forexample, for some chemicals that are routinely present in certainamounts and/or not generally considered dangerous below certain levels,the application can be configured to detect or trigger an alarm when athreshold amount is met or exceeded. For some chemicals which areconsidered dangerous in any amount, the thresholds would not generallybe adjustable.

The app can be further configured to, once a chemical is detected, sharethe detection information. For example, the application can beconfigured to use the communication circuitry 34 to broadcast an alert(or generate a notification) via any suitable communications network(e.g., WIFI, NFC, Bluetooth, cell, etc.). The alert may be directly sentto other cell phones and/or personal communication devices in the areaor may be sent to a server (or through a network) and then on to deviceswithin a range of a given location. Accordingly, the application can beconfigured to use location information from a GPS chip, WIFI or anyother location information available to the cell phone 12 to identifythe location of the detected chemical.

The app can be configured to alert the authorities in the event certainchemicals are detected. For example, the detection of any amount ofsarin gas (or other chemical/biological weapon) can trigger informationrelating to the location, time, etc. of the detection to be forwarded tocertain designated authorities for threat management/mitigation.

It should be appreciated that a network of devices having monitoringsystems, each detecting a certain chemical, can be configured to sharevaluable data regarding the dispersion of the particular chemical. Forexample, devices in close proximity to each other and the point oforigin of the chemical may detect a greater concentration of thechemical than devices further away from the point of origin. Using thisdata and an appropriate dispersion model, a point of origin can becalculated. This can allow responsive action to be taken more quicklythan otherwise would be the case.

Similarly, the data (location, concentration, etc.) from a plurality ofsuch devices can be used to predict dispersion of the chemical so thatpreemptive action can be taken to minimize exposure of humans to thedetected chemical.

Providing the monitoring system 16 in a separate component that isattachable to a phone or other personal communication device has severaladvantages. For example, any and all such devices can becomemonitors/detectors upon the provision of a suitable case or othercomponent. Accordingly, a consumer can decide whether to add thefunctionality. In addition, the orientation, location and other aspectsof the positioning of the sensor elements within the case or othercomponent can be standardized to provide more consistent detection ascompared to placing the sensor elements within various different modelsof cell phones. This is because the myriad phone manufacturers andmodels each have different space constraints that would dictatedifferent available locations, orientations, etc. for the sensorelements within the phone. As such, some sensor elements would be in abetter position within a respective phone to detect chemicals than otherphones. This can lead to widely varying detection accuracy betweendifferent phones exposed to the same concentration of a given chemical.

It should be appreciated that, although the monitoring system 16 isillustrated as part of a case 10, the monitoring system can also beprovided as a separate unit attachable either directly to a cell phoneor the like, or attachable to a case in which a cell phone is contained.

With reference to FIG. 3, another exemplary embodiment is illustratedand includes a case for a personal communication device identifiedgenerally by reference numeral 50. In this embodiment, the case 50 issimilar to the case 10 of FIG. 1 but further includes a slot 52 forreceiving a removable and/or replaceable monitoring system 54. In oneembodiment, the removable/replaceable component includes all of thecomponents of the monitoring system such as a power source,monitor/detector components, and communications circuitry. In otherembodiments, the removable/replaceable component can include only thesensors of the monitor/detector, only the power source, only thecommunication circuitry, or any combination thereof. Theremovable/replaceable component can be configured to “click-lock” in theslot 52 in a manner similar to an SD card or the like wherein thecomponent is pressed into the slot until a latch engages to retain thecomponent and then pressed further into the slot to release the latchfor removal. It will be appreciated that there are a wide variety ofways to retain the removable component in the slot. A seal orweatherproof cap can be provided to prevent ingress of water orcontaminants.

While the foregoing embodiments illustrate a monitoring systemattachable to a personal communication device directly or via aprotective case or the like, it should be appreciated that themonitoring system of the above described embodiments can also link tothe personal communication device without being physically attachedthereto. Thus, the monitoring system can be provided as a standalonesystem to which the personal communication device can be configured toconnect to perform the above described functions.

For example, with reference to FIG. 4, a monitoring system 64 isprovided in a separate container 66, such as a shipping box or the like.When the personal communication device is placed in proximity to theshipping box, the monitoring system can be configured to connect apersonal communication device, such as cell phone 12, and perform theabove-described functionality. The monitoring system can be placedinside the box, for detecting chemicals carried within the box, forexample. In other embodiments the monitoring system 64 can additionallyor alternatively monitor for chemicals outside of the box.

It should be appreciated that the monitoring system 64 can be configuredto communicate with other devices besides (or in addition to) thepersonal communication device described above. Such devices can includescanners or other devices adapted to connect and receive data from aplurality of such monitoring systems disposed in a plurality ofrespective containers.

In one example, a scanning device can be associated with a conveyorsystem of a parcel service for scanning packages by communicating withmonitoring systems associated with the packages as they advance througha shipping facility. In another example, the monitoring devices of thepresent disclosure can be associated with luggage (or other airline orcommon carrier freight). It will be appreciated that a wide variety ofapplications for the technology of the present disclosure arecontemplated.

In some embodiments, it can be advantageous to include active and/orpassive air flow inducing devices for ensuring sufficient air flowacross the sensors.

This can be particularly advantageous for applications wherein thesensors are in a fixed location, such as within a cargo hold or otherlocation. Suitable devices can include fans or micropumps for displacingair across and/or adjacent a sensor installation. In some applications,louvers or vent openings can be positioned to maximize air flow to thesensor. Increasing air flow can make detection of certain chemicals moreefficient.

It should be appreciated that the monitoring system 16 of the presentdisclosure can be configured to activate sensors 28 only when connectedto a personal communication device or the like. In such configuration,the monitoring system generally lies dormant until such time as aconnection is made with a remote device. The system 16 may then beginsensing for one or more chemicals and transmitting data to the remotedevice.

In another configuration, the system 16 may be configured toperiodically activate to sense for the presence of one or more chemicalsregardless of whether the system 16 is connected to a remote device. Inthis case, once the system 16 connects to a remote device, all past datagathered by the system 16 can be transmitted to the remote device toprovide a sensing history.

Turning to FIGS. 5-9, various applications of the exemplary monitoringsystem are illustrated. In FIG. 5, a monitoring system 16 is deployed ina public restroom facility PR. The monitoring system 16 can be placednear a door in a position to where air flow into/out of the facility maygenerally be optimized. The monitoring system 16 could also beincorporated into an exhaust air duct of the facility. The monitoringsystem 16 can be configured to communicate with one or more handhelddevices or can establish a permanent or semi-permanent connection toexisting communication infrastructure, such as WIFI or the like.

In FIG. 6, a monitoring system 16 is integrated into the collar of a lawenforcement canine C. It will be appreciated that movement of the canineC will cause air to circulate around the monitoring system 16 to enhancesensing capabilities. In addition, the canine can be instructed to entercertain spaces for inspection and/or sampling of the air that wouldgenerally not be accessible by other methods. In addition to mounting ona canine, the monitoring system can be mounted on other mobile platformssuch as drones or unmanned or manned vehicles.

FIG. 7 illustrates a monitoring system 16 in a customs and/or borderpatrol checkpoint CP. It will be appreciated a plurality of monitoringsystems can be deployed in suitable locations throughout the checkpoint.In the illustrated embodiment, the monitoring system is shown on a postadjacent a vehicle travel path.

FIG. 8 illustrates a monitoring system 16 in a cargo hold of an aircraftA, such as a commercial airliner.

FIG. 9 illustrates a monitoring system 16 integrated into a handheldwand W for manually scanning/sampling a passenger P and the passenger'sluggage L. It will be appreciated that the monitoring system 16 can beincorporated into existing wands, such as metal detector wands typicallyused by security personnel for scanning passengers at airports or otherindividuals.

The exemplary embodiment has been described with reference to thepreferred embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations willoccur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detaileddescription. It is intended that the exemplary embodiment be construedas including all such modifications and alterations insofar as they comewithin the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Monitoring System Devices and Processes:

FIG. 10 shows a block diagram of an overview of monitoring systemdevices and processes of one embodiment. FIG. 10 shows monitoring systemdevices and processes 1000 including a plurality of chemical sensors fordetecting certain chemical compositions 1010. In one embodiment theplurality of chemical sensors for detecting certain chemicalcompositions 1010 are applied for military and law enforcement use 1012.A monitoring system chemical signature app for analyzing sensor detectedchemical compositions 1014 is also used for analysis data stored on acell phone memory device for transmitting over WIFI to a network 1016.

FIG. 10 shows a plurality of biological sensors for detecting certainbiological pathogens 1002. In one embodiment the plurality of biologicalsensors for detecting certain biological pathogens 1002 is applied forhome use 1020. A monitoring system biological pathogen app for analyzingsensor detected biological pathogens 1022 and for displaying biologicalpathogen app for analysis data on a user's cell phone 1024.

In another embodiment a monitoring system biological pathogen app foranalyzing sensor detected biological pathogens 1032 is applied forclinical use 1030. The analysis data stored on a cell phone memorydevice for transmitting over WIFI to a network 1034. In yet anotherembodiment a mass use 1040 uses a monitoring system biological pathogenapp for analyzing sensor detected biological pathogens 1042. Also usesmultiple monitoring systems detection analysis data stored on a cellphone for transmitting over WIFI to a network memory device 1044 of oneembodiment.

Monitor/Detector Component:

FIG. 11 shows a block diagram of an overview of monitor/detectorcomponent of one embodiment. FIG. 11 shows a monitor system with atleast one monitor/detector component 1100 with a plurality of chemicalsensors 1110 for detecting certain chemical compositions 1112. Theplurality of chemical sensors 1110 includes chemical sensors configuredto sample gases 1114. The monitor system with at least onemonitor/detector component 1100 can be configured with a plurality ofbiological sensors 1120 for detecting certain biological pathogens 1122.The plurality of biological sensors 1120 includes biological sensorsconfigured to sample gases 1124. The plurality of biological sensors1120 includes biological sensors configured to sample liquids 1126. Thedevices include a monitor system with at least one gas samplemonitor/detector component 1130. The devices include a monitor systemwith at least one liquid sample monitor/detector component 1140 of oneembodiment.

Liquid Sample Monitor/Detector Component:

FIG. 12 shows a block diagram of an overview of liquid samplemonitor/detector component of one embodiment. FIG. 12 shows a monitorsystem with at least one liquid sample monitor/detector component 1140with biological sensors configured to sample liquids 1126. Detectionusing liquid samples is preformed using impedimetric biosensors 1200.The impedimetric biosensors 1200 are powered using sensor circuit power1210 and use impedance measurement circuitry 1220 for an analysisprocess. At least one liquid sample monitor/detector component 1230 isconfigured for at least human salvia and breath moisture liquid samples1240.

At least one liquid sample monitor/detector component configured fordetecting certain biological pathogens including but not limited toinfectious viruses including SARS-CoV-2 1250. In another embodiment atleast one liquid sample monitor/detector component configured formultiple reading and analysis of detection data from multiple monitorsystems devices at the same time 1260 of one embodiment.

Recording the Individual Patient'S Detection Analysis Data Informationin the Patient's HIPAA EHR:

FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of an overview of recording the individualpatient's detection analysis data information in the patient's HIPAA EHRof one embodiment. FIG. 13 shows monitoring system biological pathogenapp for analyzing sensor detected biological pathogens 1042. Monitoringsystems detection analysis data is stored on a cell phone fortransmitting over WIFI to a network memory device 1044. The processincludes transmitting monitor system detection analysis data for anindividual patient and recording the individual patient's detectionanalysis data information in the patient's HIPAA EHR 1300 of oneembodiment.

A Monitor System for Monitoring and Detecting Chemical Compositions andBiological Pathogens:

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of an overview of a monitor system formonitoring and detecting chemical compositions and biological pathogensof one embodiment. FIG. 14 shows a monitor system for monitoring anddetecting chemical compositions and biological pathogens 1400. Themonitor system is configured to communicate with a cell phone 1410. Themonitor system is configured with at least one monitor/detectorcomponent 1420. The monitor system is configured with a plurality ofbiological sensors 1430 for detecting certain biological pathogens 1440.The monitor system is configured with a plurality of chemical sensors1450 for detecting certain chemical compositions 1460 of one embodiment.

A Power Source:

FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of an overview of a power source of oneembodiment. FIG. 15 shows the monitor system 16 coupled to a powersource 24. The power source 24 can be configured to include a powersupply including a type of battery including but not limited to alithium battery 1520. The power source 24 can be configured to includephotovoltaic cells and power through a wireless energy receiving antennaconfigured to supply energy to the case 1530. The power source 24 can beconfigured to include a external rechargeable battery pack connected(wired or wireless) to the case attached to the phone 1540. The externalrechargeable battery pack can be charged with wired, wireless and solarcharging 1542.

The power source 24 is configured to be a power supply 1550 as shown inFIG. 16. The power source 24 is configured to be a power supply 1550 forcommunication circuitry 1560. Communication circuitry 1560 can beconfigured to include one or more from a group including a near fieldcommunication device 1570, Bluetooth communication device 1572, WIFIcommunication device 1574 and any other suitable communication circuity1576. The communication circuitry 1560 is used for establishingcommunications with a cell phone 12. A cell phone 12 or othercommunication device is the communication link to the user. The cellphone includes a digital processor, a memory device, a communicationcircuitry, and a power source 1592. The cell phone can includeadditional components including a display device, input device, varioussensors, various antennas, and other features 1594 of one embodiment.

An Air Flow Induction Device:

FIG. 16 shows a block diagram of an overview of an air flow inductiondevice of one embodiment. FIG. 16 shows a continuation from FIG. 15 themonitor/detector component 1600 mounted or otherwise contained within acase 1610. A case 1620 can be made of a hard plastic two-piece frame1622. A case 1620 can be made in any form made of a resilient materialthat can be deformed 1626. An air flow induction device is used forproviding for adequate and or continuous flow of air to the monitor1630. A passive air flow induction device including louvers, vents, airflow directional devices 1640. Louvers or vent openings can bepositioned to maximize air flow to the sensor increasing air flow fordetection of certain chemicals more efficient 1645.

Also continuing from FIG. 15 is showing an active air flow inductiondevice including louvers, vents, air flow directional devices 1650 withan independent power supply 1670, fans and micro pumps 1660 and activeair flow inducing devices for ensuring sufficient air flow across thesensors in a fixed location with restricted air movement 1665 of oneembodiment.

A Cell Phone for Processing:

FIG. 17 shows a block diagram of an overview of a cell phone forprocessing of one embodiment. FIG. 17 shows the monitor system collectsdata and transmits or otherwise shares the collected data with the cellphone for processing 1700. The data collected by the monitor/detector istransmitted via communication circuitry to the cell phone communicationcircuitry 1710. Other data, such as sensor state, status, performancedata, and other data can also be transmitted to the cell phone 1720. Thedata collected and transmitted by the monitoring system is thenprocessed by the cell phone to detect one or more chemical compositionor biological pathogen in accordance with one or more methods 1730.

Programmable code for analyzing the data is stored in memory of the cellphone 1740. Other detection and/or analyzing methods and techniques mayalso be used 1750 The programmable code stored in memory can be in theform of an application, or “app” that is downloaded and provided withvarious “signatures” of chemical compositions or biological pathogens1760 of one embodiment.

Sensors May Detect Harmful Materials:

FIG. 18 shows a block diagram of an overview of sensors may detectharmful materials of one embodiment. FIG. 18 shows sensors may detectharmful materials, including explosives, radioactive materials, harmfulchemicals, including chemical warfare agents, nerve gases, biologicalmaterials, including gases, anthrax and other germ warfare agents,narcotics and other illegal drugs, or combinations thereof 1800. Atleast one of the sensors can be configured for generating a signal whichis indicative of the presence of a nitrogen-based explosive, includingtrinitrotoluene (TNT) and/or a peroxide based explosive, includingtriacetone triperoxide (TATP) or hexamethylenetriperoxidediamine (HMTD),or a combination thereof 1810.

Chemical signatures can be compared to the monitor system collected datato determine whether a specific chemical signature was detected by themonitoring system 1820. A chemical signature app can be configured to beautomatically updated with new signatures as the need to detectparticular chemicals arise 1830. The chemical signature app featuresinclude adjustable thresholds 1840, for example, for some chemicals thatare routinely present in certain amounts and/or not generally considereddangerous below certain levels, the chemical signature app can beconfigured to detect or trigger an alarm when a threshold amount is metor exceeded 1850. The description is continued in FIG. 19

A Chemical Signature App:

FIG. 19 shows a block diagram of an overview of a chemical signature appof one embodiment. FIG. 19 shows a continuation from FIG. 18 shows thechemical signature app can be configured to detect or trigger an alarmwhen a chemical which is considered dangerous in any amount 1900. Thechemical signature app is configured to, once a chemical is detected,share the detection information 1910, for example, the chemicalsignature app is configured to use the communication circuitry tobroadcast an alert (or generate a notification) via any suitablecommunications network e.g., WIFI, NFC, Bluetooth, cell, and othernetworks 1920. The alert may be directly sent to other cell phonesand/or personal communication devices in the area, or may be sent to aserver (or through a network) and then on to devices within a range of agiven location 1930.

The chemical signature app is configured to use location informationfrom a GPS chip, WIFI or any other location information available to thecell phone to identify the location of the detected chemical 1940. Thechemical signature app can be configured to alert the authorities in theevent certain chemicals are detected 1950, for example, the detection ofany amount of sarin gas (or other chemical/biological weapon) cantrigger information relating to the location, time, and other data ofthe detection to be forwarded to certain designated authorities forthreat management/mitigation 1960 of one embodiment.

A Biological Pathogen App:

FIG. 20 shows a block diagram of an overview of a biological pathogenapp of one embodiment. FIG. 20 shows a plurality of biological sensors1430 for detecting certain biological pathogens 1440 including viruses,bacteria, fungi, and parasites 2000.

At least one of the sensors can be configured for generating a signalwhich is indicative of the presence of an infectious biological pathogenincluding SARS-CoV2, influenza, tuberculosis and others 2010. Biologicalpathogens can be compared to the monitor system collected data todetermine whether a specific biological pathogen was detected by themonitoring system 2020. A biological pathogen app can be configured tobe automatically updated with new signatures as the need to detectparticular biological pathogens arise 2030. The description is continuedin FIG. 21.

Communication Circuitry to Broadcast an Alert:

FIG. 21 shows a block diagram of an overview of communication circuitryto broadcast an alert of one embodiment. FIG. 21 shows a continuationfrom FIG. 20 the biological pathogen app can be configured to detect ortrigger an alarm when a pathogen which is considered highly infectiousis detected 2100. The biological pathogen app is configured to, once ahighly infectious pathogen is detected, share the detection information2110, for example, the biological pathogen app is configured to use thecommunication circuitry to broadcast an alert (or generate anotification) via any suitable communications network e.g., WIFI, NFC,Bluetooth, cell, and other networks 2120. The alert may be directly sentto other cell phones and/or personal communication devices in the area,or may be sent to a server (or through a network) and then on to deviceswithin a range of a given location 2130 of one embodiment.

A Network of Devices Having a Plurality of Monitoring Systems:

FIG. 22 shows for illustrative purposes only an example of a network ofdevices having a plurality of monitoring systems of one embodiment. FIG.22 shows a network of devices having a plurality of monitoring systems,each detecting a certain chemical 2200. The plurality of monitoringsystems configured to share valuable data regarding the dispersion ofthe particular chemical 2210. Monitoring systems in close proximity toeach other and a point of origin of the chemical may detect a greaterconcentration of the chemical than monitoring systems further away fromthe point of origin 2220. This data is used for creating a dispersionmodel for calculating a point of origin of the source of the chemical2230. Pinpointing the point of origin allows responsive actions to betaken more quickly than otherwise would be the case 2240. The dataincluding location, concentration, and other data from a plurality ofmonitoring systems can be used to predict dispersion of the chemical sothat preemptive actions can be taken to minimize exposure of humans tothe detected chemical 2250 of one embodiment.

The Monitoring System Configured in a Separate Component:

FIG. 23 shows a block diagram of an overview of the monitoring systemconfigured in a separate component of one embodiment. FIG. 23 shows themonitoring system can be configured in a separate component that isattachable to other devices 2300. The monitoring system is configured tocommunicate with other devices besides a personal communication device2310 including scanners and other devices adapted to connect and receivedata from a plurality of such monitoring systems 2312. The monitoringsystem is attachable either directly to a cell phone or other personalcommunication device or attachable to a case 2320. A standalonemonitoring system wirelessly linked to a personal communication devicewithout being physically attached thereto 2330 can be used. Themonitoring system operating frequency 2340 can be varied for aparticular use. The monitoring system can be configured to activatesensors only when connected to a personal communication device 2350. Inthis operating frequency the monitoring system generally lies dormantuntil such time as a connection is made with a remote device 2355. Themonitoring system operating frequency 2340 can be configured toperiodically activate to sense for the presence of one or more chemicalsregardless of whether the system is connected to a remote device 2360.In this case, once the monitoring system connects to a remote device,all past data gathered by the system can be transmitted to the remotedevice to provide a sensing history 2365 of one embodiment.

A Scanning Device:

FIG. 24 shows a block diagram of an overview of a scanning device of oneembodiment. FIG. 24 shows a monitor system with at least onemonitor/detector component 2400 and a plurality of chemical sensors 1450for detecting certain chemical compositions 1460. A monitoring system isprovided in a separate container 2410 to monitor for chemicals outsideof the box 2420. When the personal communication device is placed inproximity to a shipping box 2430 the monitoring system transmits thedata to the personal communication device. The monitoring system can beplaced inside the box, for detecting chemicals carried within the box2440. A scanning device can be associated with a conveyor system of aparcel service for scanning packages by communicating with monitoringsystems associated with the packages as they advance through a shippingfacility 2450. The monitor systems can be associated with luggage andother airline or common carrier freight 2460 of one embodiment.

RC Ground Vehicles and Aircraft:

FIG. 25 shows a block diagram of an overview of RC ground vehicles andair craft of one embodiment. FIG. 25 shows a monitor system with atleast one monitor/detector component 2400 and a plurality of chemicalsensors 1450 for detecting certain chemical compositions 1460. In oneembodiment deploying monitor systems at exhaust vents and smoke stacksis used for detecting hazardous chemical compositions 2510. Monitorsystem detection systems are configured to be attached to RC groundvehicles and aircraft including drones 2520.

The monitor system GPS devices are configured to provide directionalguidance to the steering devices of the RC ground vehicles and aircraftincluding drones for changing direction to follow the highestconcentration of detected targeted chemical compositions for examplechemical fumes of combusted materials 2530. The monitor system areconfigured for transmitting data to a device to plot the GPS directionsbeing followed, the course, on an area map to display the probable areaunder conflagration for early pinpointing of wild and forest fires todirect fire fighter to the specific locations 2540 of one embodiment.

Directional Guidance to the Steering Devices:

FIG. 26 shows a block diagram of an overview of directional guidance tothe steering devices of one embodiment. FIG. 26 shows a monitor systemwith at least one monitor/detector component 2400 with a plurality ofchemical sensors 1450 for detecting certain chemical compositions 1460.Monitor system detection systems are configured to be attached to RCground vehicles and aircraft including drones 2520. The monitor systemGPS devices are configured to provide directional guidance to thesteering devices of the RC ground vehicles and aircraft including dronesfor changing direction to follow the highest concentration of detectedtargeted chemical compositions for example chemical fumes of hazardousmaterials 2600. Using the monitor systems for detecting and earlypinpointing of hazardous waste spills 2610. The monitor systems areconfigured for transmitting the GPS data to a device to plot the pathbeing followed on an area map to display the probable area of thehazardous waste spill 2620 of one embodiment.

Location of Medical Waste Disposal:

FIG. 27 shows a block diagram of an overview of location of medicalwaste disposal of one embodiment. FIG. 27 shows a monitor system with atleast one monitor/detector component 2400 with a plurality of chemicalsensors 1450 for detecting certain chemical compositions 1460. Inanother embodiment the monitor system is configured with a plurality ofbiological sensors 1430 for detecting certain biological pathogens 1440.Some applications are configured for combining multiple detectionssystems configured for detecting chemical compositions and biologicalpathogens simultaneously 2710. The plurality of biological sensors 1430for detecting certain biological pathogens 1440 can be used with themonitor system detection systems are configured to be attached to RCground vehicles and aircraft including drones 2520. Application includeusing detection systems configured with biological sensors to locate thelocation of medical waste disposal, decomposing bodies of missinglivestock and bodies of missing persons 2700 of one embodiment.

Monitor Systems are Placed in Air Handlers:

FIG. 28 shows a block diagram of an overview of monitor systems areplaced in air handlers of one embodiment. FIG. 28 shows a monitor systemwith at least one monitor/detector component 2400 with a plurality ofbiological sensors 1430 for detecting certain biological pathogens 1440.Monitor systems are placed in air handlers to detect pathogens in theair 2800. Monitor systems are configured to activate disinfectantdispersing devices when pathogens are detected in the air 2810. Monitorsystems GPS chips record the GPS coordinates in a memory device of thedetection reader 2820. The monitor systems are configured to transmitdetection location GPS coordinates to a sensing platform smart phone app2830 of one embodiment.

The foregoing has described the principles, embodiments and modes ofoperation of the present invention. However, the invention should not beconstrued as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed. Theabove described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative ratherthan restrictive, and it should be appreciated that variations may bemade in those embodiments by workers skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention as defined by thefollowing claims.

1-40. (canceled)
 41. A method, comprising: providing an air monitoringsystem having a plurality of biological sensors and a detection sensorfor detecting predetermined biological pathogens; integrating the airmonitoring system into air handlers to detect the predeterminedbiological pathogens in air flow passing through the air handlers thatare in contact with the plurality of biological sensors; providingdisinfectant within the air handlers with dispersing devices that areactivated when the predetermined biological pathogens are detected inthe air flow; providing a detection reader with a GPS module thatproduces GPS location coordinates, wherein the detection reader iscoupled to the air monitoring system for analyzing and identifying thepredetermined detected biological pathogen; and providing at least onecommunication device coupled to the detection reader for accessing theGPS location coordinates of the detection reader and the detectedpredetermined pathogen.
 42. The method of claim 41, further comprisingproviding a memory device coupled to the detection reader for recordingthe GPS location coordinates.
 43. The method of claim 41, furthercomprising providing an active air flow induction device coupled to theair monitoring system for inducing a continuous flow of air across theplurality of biological sensors.
 44. The method of claim 41, furthercomprising providing a smart phone as the at least one communicationdevice.
 45. The method of claim 41, further comprising analyzing sensordetected biological pathogens with a sensing app operating on a smartphone app.
 46. The method of claim 41, further comprising providing adisinfectant within the air handlers with dispersing devices that kills99.9% of the predetermined biological pathogens.
 47. An apparatus,comprising: an air monitoring system having a plurality of biologicalsensors and a detection sensor configured to detect predeterminedbiological pathogens; wherein the air monitoring system is integratedinto air handlers and configured to detect the predetermined biologicalpathogens in air flow passing through the air handlers that are incontact with the plurality of biological sensors; disinfectantdispersing devices configured to disperse disinfectant within the airhandlers when the predetermined biological pathogens are detected in theair flow; a detection reader with a GPS module that produces GPSlocation coordinates, wherein the detection reader is coupled to the airmonitoring system and configured to analyze and identify thepredetermined detected biological pathogen; and at least onecommunication device coupled to the detection reader and configured toaccess the GPS location coordinates of the detection reader and thedetected predetermined pathogen.
 48. The apparatus of claim 47, furthercomprising a memory device coupled to the detection reader andconfigured for recording GPS location coordinates and providing the GPSlocation coordinates to designated users.
 49. The apparatus of claim 47,further comprising an active air flow induction device coupled to theair monitoring system and configured for inducing a continuous flow ofair across the plurality of biological sensors.
 50. The apparatus ofclaim 47, wherein the communication device is a smart phone.
 51. Theapparatus of claim 47, further comprising an active air flow inductiondevice coupled to the air monitoring system for inducing a continuousflow of air in a fixed location with restricted air movement includingin a cargo hold of an aircraft.
 52. The apparatus of claim 47, furthercomprising a smart phone with an app wirelessly coupled to the detectionreader configured for analyzing sensor detected biological pathogens andfor displaying sensor detected analysis data on a user's digital device.53. The apparatus of claim 47, further comprising a GPS chip coupled tothe air monitoring system and configured for receiving GPS coordinatesand recording the GPS coordinates in a memory device of the detectionreader.
 54. An apparatus, comprising: an air monitoring system having aplurality of biological sensors and a detection sensor configured todetect predetermined biological pathogens; wherein the air monitoringsystem is integrated into air handlers and configured to detect thepredetermined biological pathogens in air flow passing through the airhandlers that are in contact with the plurality of biological sensors;an active air flow induction device coupled to the air monitoring systemand configured for inducing a continuous flow of air across theplurality of biological sensors; disinfectant dispersing devicesconfigured to disperse disinfectant within the air handlers when thepredetermined biological pathogens are detected in the air flow; adetection reader coupled to the air monitoring system and having a GPSmodule that produces GPS location coordinates, wherein the detectionreader is configured to analyze and identify the predetermined detectedbiological pathogen; and at least one smart phone coupled to thedetection reader and configured to access the GPS location coordinatesof the detection reader and the detected predetermined pathogen.
 55. Theapparatus of claim 54, further comprising louvers, vents, air flowdirectional devices with an independent power supply, fans and micropumps and active air flow inducing devices coupled to the active airflow induction device.
 56. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein the activeair flow induction device is configured to induce a continuous flow ofair in a fixed location with restricted air movement including in acargo hold of an aircraft.
 57. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein thesmart phone is coupled to a remote server and coupled to plural remotesmart phones.
 58. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein the GPS locationcoordinates of the detection reader and the detected predeterminedpathogen are transmitted to a network for sharing with plural users. 59.The apparatus of claim 54, wherein the disinfectant dispersing devicesare configured to be controlled by a user to allow manual dispersion ofthe disinfectant.
 60. The apparatus of claim 54, further comprising aGPS chip coupled to the air monitor system configured for transmittingGPS coordinates to a memory device of the detection reader configuredfor recording the GPS coordinates and for wirelessly transmittingdetection locations GPS coordinates to the biological pathogen app toplural remote users.